Motherhood can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it can also feel isolating and overwhelming. Many moms struggle to find a balance between caring for their little ones, maintaining their own well-being, and staying connected with others. For Dana Halliburton, owner of FIT4MOM Temple Belton Salado, her journey to becoming a FIT4MOM franchise owner wasn’t just about fitness; it was about finding a supportive community that helped her navigate the ups and downs of motherhood. And now, she’s helping other moms do the same!
From Survival Mode to Success Mode: Moms Leading with Purpose
FIT4MOM x Mindy Hayward-Hauck x Dana Halliburton
A Family and a Community
Dana has been married to her husband Ian for 10 years and is Mom to Vance, who’s almost 6. Like so many moms, her motherhood journey wasn’t always as easy as it looked on the outside. When she discovered FIT4MOM, everything changed.
“I was first invited by the previous owner when I was six months pregnant with Vance,” she says. “But it wasn’t until March of 2020 that I actually attended my first class. I definitely regret not joining when I was pregnant—it would have saved me during the fourth trimester!”
At the time, Dana didn’t realize just how much of an impact the right fitness classes for moms could have. “I took my first Stroller Strides class and was HOOKED immediately,” she says. “I underestimated what the class would be like, and let me tell you—it kicked my butt! But in the best way.”
Of course, the world had other plans. As the pandemic hit and everything shut down, she couldn’t have anticipated the journey ahead. What Dana thought would be a typical introduction to a local fitness class turned into something much deeper. “When the world was breaking all around us, it allowed our village to grow closer and stronger,” she says.
From Member to Franchise Owner: A Journey of Transformation
In just over a year, Dana went from being a member of the FIT4MOM village to becoming the Playgroup Captain, then an Instructor, and eventually, the Owner of the franchise. “I purchased the franchise in March of 2022,” she shares with pride.
But the decision to take on that leadership role wasn’t an easy one. Dana faced challenges with self-doubt and uncertainty, but in the end, it was the support of her FIT4MOM community that gave her the confidence to take the leap.
“My FIT4MOM village saved me when I was drowning in postpartum depression and anxiety,” she admits. “It gave me the support I needed to change my postpartum and COVID experience.” She reflects on how her journey would have been much more difficult without the community that surrounded her. “After talking with my family and friends, I knew I wanted to be that source of light for other moms who were struggling.”
Why FIT4MOM? The Power of Community
One of the reasons Dana chose to invest in a FIT4MOM franchise is the same reason so many moms fall in love with the program: the community. “Making mom friends isn’t easy,” she says. “It’s intimidating. You’re vulnerable, and it’s hard to find that support. I wanted to build a community of moms who supported one another, welcomed new moms with open arms, and created a space where no mom would ever feel judged or criticized.”
This sense of belonging is one of the things that makes FIT4MOM so special. Whether it’s prenatal classes, Stroller Strides, or playdates, FIT4MOM creates a space where moms can come together, get fit, and form lasting friendships. It’s a safe space where moms feel supported no matter where they are in their journey.
Finding Flexibility and Purpose in Motherhood
Before becoming a FIT4MOM franchise owner, Dana worked as a Health & Wellness Coordinator and Personal Trainer. Once she became a mom, her career took an unexpected turn. “When I went back to work after maternity leave, my job didn’t respect my journey as a new mother,” she explains. “They completely changed my position and hours, and expected me to work long hours that kept me away from my newborn son. That’s when I knew I had to make a change.”
It was during that challenging time that she realized what she truly wanted: the flexibility to spend more time with her son and the opportunity to contribute to her family in a way that didn’t sacrifice her well-being. “I felt lost, lonely, and anxious during the fourth trimester,” she says. “I lost my identity, and I poured everything into my son.”
When the opportunity to become a FIT4MOM instructor came up, she knew it was a chance to not only rediscover her identity but also help other moms find their own balance. “When I was offered the chance to purchase the franchise, it felt like the door to everything I’d ever wanted opened wide,” she says.
Owning a FIT4MOM franchise allows Dana to create her own schedule, prioritize her health and wellness, and be present for her family. “It gives me the flexibility to spend time with my son, attend school events, and still contribute to my family,” she explains. “And I get to snuggle all the babies and fill my cup every day!”
The Joy of Helping Other Moms
What Dana loves most about being a FIT4MOM franchise owner is the ability to spend more time with her son, but also to be part of a community that helps other moms do the same. “I love being able to build the schedule I want, with people I love,” she says. “It’s amazing to be able to go for brunch with FIT4MOM friends on a random Tuesday or attend playdates throughout the week. It’s the best of both worlds.”
But beyond the perks of the schedule, it’s the people that make everything worth it. “The dynamic of my FIT4MOM village is incredible,” she says. “No matter who you ask, anyone in our village would help at the drop of a hat. It’s so inclusive and judgment-free, and I’ve made some of my closest friends through FIT4MOM.”
A Warm Invitation: Take the Leap
If you’re a mom considering a career shift or looking for your next passion project, Dana has some words of encouragement for you: “Take the leap! FIT4MOM is there every step of the way. You have a built-in village across the U.S. waiting to be friends with you!”
She continues, “I truly believe FIT4MOM saved me, and it could save you, too. If you’ve been searching for a community that gets it—if you’re ready to invest in yourself, your fitness, and your future—then a FIT4MOM franchise could be the perfect next step.”
It's Time to Find Your Village
Dana’s journey shows just how powerful the right support and community can be for a mom. FIT4MOM isn’t just about fitness—it’s about connection, empowerment, and creating a life that works for you. If you’ve been looking for that sense of belonging, whether through a prenatal fitness class, mommy and me classes, or just connecting with other moms, FIT4MOM offers a welcoming space to do just that.
If you want to become an entrepreneur and own a local business, we invite you to learn more about our franchise opportunities. Created by moms for moms, FIT4MOM is more than just a workout. We are a village of moms who build connections, empowerment, and strength in motherhood nationwide. Join our village of Franchise owners and create a community for moms in your neighborhood while building a successful business with your kids by your side.
Moms need a village, and it starts with you.
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